Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Katherine Maurus_An American Geisha Final




2 comments:

Katherine M said...

The idea for this project was born out of my fascination with Japanese pop-culture. I wanted to create a look for a female fictional artist named Katherine Valentine, who can be likened to an American Geisha. It was important that all three pieces showed consistency and uniformity. In this regard, I selected a variety of vector images with tremendous elasticity and positioned them throughout all three components. The challenges for the CD were hinged upon designing a modern, accessible CD package (outside and inside) and actual CD that would resonate with an American audience. I substituted my own picture for vector art and really focused on consistency within the CD design. I wanted to steer away from the traditional red and black palette often used in oriental art, and create a soft, ultra-feminine look by capitalizing on a more subdued pastel palette with pink and black as the two key color choices. Inside the CD package there is a promotion which leads you to the micro-site. Upon entering the code, the consumer is entered into a drawing where he/she can win backstage passes to Katherine’s latest tour and unlocks hidden features on the micro-site.

The micro-site is promoting the CD and should not be mistaken for the artist’s own website (which would constantly change). I wanted the micro-site and CD to have the same look and feel; therefore I borrowed images from the CD packaging and strategically placed them throughout the site. The splash page utilizes a similar feel as the actual CD. However, lyrics drip down the page and the image of the artist moves back and forth until you “click to enter” the site. The micro-site was designed for the user to spend time with the brand and reinforce a relationship between the artist and the consumer. The micro-site features a “fun page” where the viewer can explore Japanese culture, fashion and art; submit their own art work or blog with other fans. The site also features a login and a “my stuff” page where the user can customize his/her own page and receive the latest news on Katherine Valentine. The site also features tour dates, bio, pics, merchandise and more. There is a special component to the website that can be unlocked when the user enters the code found in their CD package. Only members who enter the special code found inside their CD can be entered into a drawing for backstage passes to the artist’s latest tour.

The event flyer would be used to promote concert dates and locations. The flyer capitalizes on an edgier feel than the micro-site and CD package, but maintains visual consistency through certain key visual pieces. The flyer also features the micro-site address, encouraging the target to interact with the brand and learn more about the artist.

Jimmy Jennings said...

Really great job. The design elements look great and the concept and idea came out nicely.